The Comfort of Drinking Homemade Hot Apple Cider in Fall

Drinking homemade hot apple cider in fall has become a cozy, comforting ritual that makes the season feel warm and inviting. There’s nothing quite like the smell of simmering apples, cinnamon, and cloves filling my home on a cool fall afternoon. I make my cider with fresh, crisp apples—Honeycrisp or Granny Smith—peeled, cored, and chopped, along with cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, a star anise, and a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. I simmer everything in a large pot for an hour or two, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the cider is rich and flavorful. I strain the cider to remove the apple pulp, then serve it warm in mugs, topped with a cinnamon stick or a dollop of whipped cream. Drinking hot apple cider is the perfect way to unwind after a walk in the crisp fall air, and it’s great for sharing with friends and family. It’s a simple pleasure that captures the essence of fall, reminding me to slow down and savor the season’s warmth and beauty. This small ritual has become an essential part of my fall routine, bringing me comfort and joy every time.

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